SMARA Technical Unit
Geologists, Environmental Scientists, Landscape Architects, and Engineers review and provide written comments on proposed reclamation plans and financial assurance cost estimates received from local lead agencies. Staff provide comment on environmental documents prepared pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, when appropriate, and perform site inspections for review of surface mining operation's financial assurances and compliance with lead agency approved reclamation plans. Staff may also initiate enforcement actions and engage in appeals to the State Mining and Geology Board.
In addition, staff conduct Inspection Training Workshops in different regions of the state to provide instruction to inspectors on performing inspections of surface mines.
Reporting Unit
Analysts develop and maintain mining operations' data and document processing systems, producing standardized compliance policies and procedures to ensure uniform and effective enforcement of SMARA statutes and regulations. The Reporting Unit also analyzes financial assurance mechanisms, annual mining operator reports for compliance, and collects mine fees to cover program costs. Analysts in this unit work directly with mine operators and lead agencies to discuss SMARA related items.
In addition, analysts work in conjunction with the SMARA Technical Unit to offer Inspection Training Workshops in different regions of the state to provide instruction to inspectors on performing inspections of surface mines.
